When we first saw the work of SeaSalt Creations, coastal calm flooded our minds. With patterns and organic forms that overlap and intertwine, there is a stark sense of harmony in what could have been chaos without the hand of artist Frew. Boasting gorgeous hues of turquoise, acqua, lime and navy, her stunning design Lombok Blues is bound to bring not only a healthy dose of brightness to your outfits but also the sense of peace and tranquility that is synonymous with stepping out into nature.

Em x

 

Tell us about yourself - Your name, where you live and anything interesting our community might like to know! 

My full name is Frew-Ann but everyone calls me Frew. Frew is a family named passed down from relatives long ago as as they descended from Renfrew in Scotland. The tradition stopped with me as I’m forever spelling my name out or correcting people! 

 

Oceans and rugged landscapes are two of the main inspirations behind your gorgeous pieces. Why do you think they serve as such a big influence on your work, from the organic shapes to the seaside hues?

I live in Ceduna, which is a small, coastal country town in South Australia. We have beautiful beaches close by and we are surrounded by amazing landscapes and countryside. I’m lucky enough to overlook the Port of Thevenard from my front deck, having a sea view is a lovely way to start each morning. 

 

Do you plan out your pieces in advance or go where your creative instinct tells you?

I love to capture the range of hues that can be found in my natural surroundings such as the Ocean and other landscapes. My artwork evolves on the spot, I enjoy the free flow of the larger shapes first where all the colours for the chosen colour palette are represented. I then create patterns and shapes to balance the composition as well as the colours. My artworks can end up being 4-5 layers of patterns as I build the colours, overlapping and intertwining to get the balance and aesthetics right. 

 

You’re an art teacher. We would love to hear how you think art (whether making it, looking at it, or wearing it!) has an impact on a person’s emotional wellbeing?

Art has the power to change emotions and shift the mindset. I’m always drawn to bright and patterned clothing and wearing Art is an instant mood changer. I have returning customers tell me how much joy my art brings to them when they walk past it in their house. Colour is amazing and through combining different colour schemes it can evoke a sense of calm, happiness, tranquility and joy. 

 

Not only are you an Art Teacher, but you’re a mother of 3, a business owner and an established artist. How do you fit it all in and stay sane? Do you have any secrets to maintaining your wellbeing when life gets busy and overwhelming?

I’m actually a mum to 5! I made the decision to start SeaSalt Creations and have a crack at really trying to promote my work. I reduced my teaching by one day and focused on a day of painting, admin and product research. Setting up a website has been fantastic for product launches as well as showcasing my work at a professional level. Having a work- life balance is really important. I have changed schools this year and am now teaching all Art. Art is my passion and what I know. My prep time is so much less now that I am teaching all Art and I enjoy the planning as I already have the knowledge and experience. Having Friday’s off to create is a lovely way to start my weekend. I feel refreshed and relaxed and also enjoy offering Art classes in my community for both kids and adults when I can work it in with my local Art studio. 

 

How do you hope the warriors of your design will feel when they get to wrap themselves up in it?

I hope the warriors who wear my scarf design feel beautiful. I hope the range of blues brings a smile to their face and reminds them of times when they have had ocean views, and been with friends and family. I hope the zingy flicks of contrasting lime green and turquoise makes them think of nature and that there are days when the sun is shining and everything can be fabulous. I hope wearing my scarf brings them a sense of confidence and makes them feel strong.